Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, January
Weather conditions in Himachal Pradesh are set to deteriorate again as a fresh western disturbance becomes active over the region. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a yellow alert, warning of rain and snowfall from the night of January 30 to February 2.
According to the weather department, the impact of the western disturbance will intensify on February 1. Snowfall is expected in higher-altitude areas, including Kullu, Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti, while rain is likely in the plains and mid-hill districts.
The Meteorological Centre Shimla scientist Sandeep Kumar Sharma said the system could begin affecting the state from 30 January, with more pronounced effects on January 31 and February 1. On February 1, widespread rain is likely across the state, with snowfall in higher regions. The department has also warned of thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour in some areas.
The changing weather is expected to lead to a drop in temperatures. Data from the weather department shows that Himachal Pradesh has already recorded 29 per cent more rainfall than normal so far this January.
Meanwhile, normal life in the state has yet to fully recover from recent heavy snowfall. As many as 652 roads, including three national highways, remain closed to traffic. In addition, 669 power transformers and 147 drinking water schemes are still disrupted, with restoration work underway.
